YOUNGSTERS are being urged to tackle bullying through their love of football.

Sunderland AFC's charity, SAFCommunity, is running a summer holiday programme for children in the west of the city.

As well as learning soccer skills, the youngsters take part in activities designed to make them think about bullying and how to stamp it out.

The scheme, backed by the Single Regeneration Budget, is aimed at the Pennywell, Grindon, Thorney Close, Ford, Pallion and Millfield areas and run by SAFCommunity football co-ordinator Ken Riley.

Mr Riley said: "SAFCommunity is committed to promoting the values of good citizenship in the community and to tackling contemporary issues through football.

"During the sessions the young people are encouraged to get involved in a number of different activities, including fun games and football skills sessions.

"From these we lead on to group discussions about bullying and promote anti-bullying messages. The pupils are given work sheets about bullying, which they complete for the next session."

He said so far youngsters had discussed different forms of bullying and who to ask for advice.